Deadly Chemical Leak in Texas: What You Need to Know

On Thursday afternoon, a chemical leak at a PEMEX oil refinery in Deer Park, Texas, had some serious consequences. Two workers lost their lives, and many others were injured when hydrogen sulfide, a toxic gas, leaked out. This happened around 4:20 p. m. , and it caused quite a stir in the area. The local sheriff, Ed Gonzalez, reported that two people were found dead, and at least 35 others needed medical attention. It's not clear yet how many were treated at the scene or taken to a hospital. PEMEX, the company that owns the refinery, said they stopped operations as soon as they noticed the leak and alerted local authorities. Due to the leak, people in Deer Park and parts of Pasadena were told to stay inside, close their windows and doors, and turn off their air conditioners. This is what we call a "shelter-in-place" order. The orders were lifted later when it was clear that no dangerous chemicals had spread to the community. Hydrogen sulfide is a common gas used in oil and gas refining, and it has a strong "rotten egg" smell. The local mayor, Jerry Mouton, said that even though the smell may have reached some neighborhoods, there was no real danger detected outside the plant. Investigators haven't been able to enter the facility yet because they're still working to make the chemical levels safe. This process might take all night, according to the sheriff. A highway nearby was closed briefly but has since reopened. The sheriff's office will be leading the investigation into what caused the leak. PEMEX is also looking into it. This isn't the first time Deer Park has faced trouble. Just last month, there was a pipeline fire that caused damage and evacuations.